Species and wood science

European oak

European oak usually refers to Quercus robur or closely traded European white-oak species.

It is valued for strength, visible rays and a warm brown colour that deepens with finish. Quarter-sawn faces can show strong ray fleck.

Do not assume it is American white oak. Species, origin and pore structure matter when colour matching or choosing finishes.

More terms

European walnut

European walnut is Juglans regia, also called English or Persian walnut.

European ash

European ash is Fraxinus excelsior, a pale hardwood with clear open grain.

Black locust

Black locust is Robinia pseudoacacia, a dense and naturally durable hardwood.

Sycamore maple

Sycamore maple is Acer pseudoplatanus, a pale European maple used for furniture and turning.